Bantam, 2016-2017, U9 (Guelph Minor Hockey Association)

The Bantam Gryphons fell just short of qualifying for the OMHA's on Saturday afternoon, falling 3 games to 2 after the Niagara North Stars won 2-1 in overtime. The Gryphons played in front of a tremendous amount of fan support at the West End Rec Centre, and although they carried the play for most of the game, could not get the go ahead goal.

With a late third period powerplay goal by Brett Allen and another solid goaltending performance from Chris Linton, the Gryphons increased their series lead to 2-0 over the Niagara North Stars. For the second game in a row the two teams played a very tight checking first two periods that resulted in a 0-0 score heading into the final frame.

The Gryphons were able to storm back from a 1-0 deficit late in the first game of their OMHA semi-final series vs the Niagara North Stars taking an early series lead. After a scoreless first two periods where both teams seemed to be feeling each other out, Niagara was able to capitalize on an early third period powerplay to go up 1-0.

The Bantam AAA Gryphons open their Semi Final series this Wednesday, March 1st at 8:30 pm at West End Recreation Centre Rink 2. Please ask all family members and friends to come on out and cheer the team on! 

The Gryphons were entering the SCTA qualifying weekend as the top seed in their group. When the weekend was over they had earned a first place finish and a rematch of last years OMHA semi final series with the Niagara North Stars. 

Playing their 4th game in 5 days the Gryphons were unable to come back against a physical Brampton team. Falling behind 1-0 in the first period on a powerplay goal, Isiah Katsube was able to tie the game at 1 when he tipped in a Cam Angst point shot. Brampton would answer right back to make it 2-1 before the second intermission. Joe Marra would tie the game at 2 on the powerplay in the third period, but a late powerplay goal would prove to be the winner for the visiting team. The Gryphons don't play again for two weeks until they visit the 45's in Brampton looking to get back into the win ...